Gazpacho, a classic chilled Spanish soup, is the perfect dish for hot summer days. Not only is it refreshingly delicious, but it's also filled with fibre-rich vegetables that can support your gut health. Let's delve into the recipe and explore the gut-healthy benefits of each ingredient.
Ingredients
- 1 kg ripe tomatoes
- 1 cucumber
- 1 green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt to taste
- Ice cubes for serving
This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings.
Method
- Chop the tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper into chunks.
- Combine these vegetables in a blender with the garlic, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt.
- Blend until smooth. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your blender.
- Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. Serve with ice cubes to keep it extra cool.
Why This Gazpacho Is Gut-Healthy
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are high in fibre, which aids digestion and helps feed the good bacteria in your gut. They are also a great source of lycopene, an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties.
Cucumber
Cucumber is not only refreshing but also hydrating due to its high water content. It is also a good source of fibre and contains an antioxidant known as cucurbitacin E, which can help reduce inflammation.
Green Bell Pepper
Bell peppers are an excellent source of fibre and vitamin C, which can support a healthy immune system. Additionally, they contain a variety of antioxidants, contributing to overall gut health.
Garlic
Garlic is renowned for its antibacterial properties, which can help maintain a healthy gut environment. It is also known to support the immune system.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and polyphenols, both of which have anti-inflammatory properties that can promote gut health.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can help promote stomach acid production, aiding digestion. It's also thought to support a healthy gut microbiome.
This refreshing gazpacho recipe is a fantastic way to nourish your gut over the summer. Every ingredient brings something beneficial to your gut health, from fibre and antioxidants to hydration and anti-inflammatory properties. Enjoy it as a light lunch or a starter for your dinner, and give your gut the care it deserves!
